Malden residents report sharp utility bill increases; mayor orders meter inspections

Three Malden residents told the City Council on March 17 that their electric bills rose sharply this month, and the mayor said the city would have meters inspected.

At the 6 p.m. regular meeting, Jacquezine Sherrod of 410 E. Francis told the council her utility bill increased to $433 a month — “which is more than my rent,” she said — and that bills had never been that high even when others lived with her. Lullie Mathis of 512 Gertie said her bill rose from $168 to $306 despite living alone and being on a fixed income. Bessie Hill said her daughter at 201 Beckwith is also seeing high bills.

Mayor Denton Kooyman said he would pass the information to city staff and have the electric meters inspected at the four addresses reported during the public-comment period. Council Member Jenkins asked that the city advertise the investigation’s findings to residents or hold a special meeting to explain the situation; Council Member Downs asked whether residents in other wards are experiencing similar increases and suggested a broader investigation, including of the utility commission and meter hardware.

The council did not take a formal vote or adopt any interim relief at the March 17 session. City Administrator/Utility Director Smith was not present; Mayor Kooyman read an administrative report and said additional documentation and follow-up would be provided when available.

What’s next: the mayor said meters at the reported locations would be checked; the council did not set a date for a public briefing or special meeting but members requested notification to residents if a systemic problem is found.